Fin's Fish Guide
The Yellow Sand Cichlid (Xenotilapia flavipinnis) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Description
The yellowfin xenotilapia is a small cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. The species grows to about 9 cm and has a slender, pearly body with yellowish fins. It lives over sandy bottoms of the lake and forms schools. With its mouth it takes mouthfuls of sand from which it sifts small invertebrates and organic matter. Notable is its biparental mouthbrooding: both parents take turns carrying the eggs and young in the mouth, a form of brood care shared by the pair. The species is popular in the aquarium. Owing to its small size it is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Yellow Sand Cichlid?
The Yellow Sand Cichlid has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Sand-sifting cichlid with biparental mouthbrooding: both parents carry the brood in turn.
Where does the Yellow Sand Cichlid live?
The Yellow Sand Cichlid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa; sandy bottoms.
How big does the Yellow Sand Cichlid get?
The Yellow Sand Cichlid grows to a maximum of about 9 cm.
Is the Yellow Sand Cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Yellow Sand Cichlid is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Yellow Sand Cichlid edible?
The Yellow Sand Cichlid is not usually eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Yellow Sand Cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Yellow Sand Cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Xenotilapia
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Yellow Sand Cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Yellow Sand Cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.